Tyla's 'Water' is named a 21st-century classic by 'Rolling Stone'

South African pop star Tyla bags another win with her global hit “Water” officially being named one of “250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century”, ranking at number 135, by "Rolling Stone".

The honour marks another major milestone for the 23-year-old, whose sound has become a defining voice of her unique “popiano” wave.

According to "Rolling Stone", “Water” stands out for the way Tyla “drapes her breathy, iridescent voice over amapiano’s trademark thunk-thunk log-drum beats.”

The publication praised the song’s seamless fusion of South African rhythm and global pop appeal, describing it as one of the freshest and most captivating tracks of the decade.

The latest list highlights the tracks that have shaped the modern music era, celebrating 25 years of songs that pushed boundaries and reflected how global pop has evolved. 

The publication describes it as a mix of sounds and styles that capture “the full chaotic glory of 21st-century music,” featuring everything from Afrobeats and reggaeton to K-pop and indie rock.

Tyla’s inclusion puts South African music on a global pedestal once again, proving that “Water” is more than just a viral hit. It’s a cultural moment that continues to resonate around the world.

From Johannesburg to the world

Tyla’s journey started in Johannesburg, where she first made waves in 2019 with her breakout single “Getting Late”. That same year, she teamed up with DJ Lag and Kooldrink on “Overdue”, a track that later featured in the trailer for Netflix’s Blood & Water.

In July 2023, she released “Water”, a song that changed everything. With its irresistible hook and signature dance challenge, it gained momentum on TikTok after its viral dance challenge and earned Tyla her first-ever entry on the US Billboard Hot 100.

Her performance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” marked her American TV debut and introduced her to a wider global audience.

“Water” spent 50 consecutive weeks at No.1 on the Billboard US Afrobeats Songs chart, making it the longest-running solo No.1 by a female artist. The song also topped musical charts in other countries such as Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom, to name a few.

In February 2024, Tyla made history after winning her first Grammy Award for “Best African Music Performance” for “Water”.

Blending pop and amapiano, “Water” is a celebration of rhythm, youth and cultural pride. Its sound represents a new era of global pop music, one where African artists are front and centre.

Being ranked among the 250 greatest songs of the century so far is yet another major win for the multi-award-winning singer.